Know what’s happening
Access the private noticeboard for verified neighbours near you. Keep informed about any suspicious activity, send urgent updates to your neighbours when required and discuss emergency planning.
Get to know your neighbours
Browse the directory and start getting to know your neighbours. Don’t want to post to the whole neighbourhood? Send a private message.
Buy, sell and give away
Want to declutter your garage? Buy some used household items? Give away some garden stuff? Become a verified neighbour to browse and post items for sale. Trading is simple when everyone lives nearby.
Thank you for using Neighbourly
You may receive an email confirmation for any offer you selected. The associated companies will contact you directly to activate your requests.
Paint it Orange - Arthritis - 1st - 29th November 2025
Paint it orange with Resene for Arthritis NZ!
Buy any orange Resene testpot 60 ml at your local Resene owned ColorShop in November and Resene will donate $1 to Arthritis NZ!
The more orange testpots you buy, the more will be donated.
Find out more
Bruce McLaren Retirement Village
Tony and June feel like the luckiest people living in a Ryman village.
The couple have lived in their large, sunny serviced apartment for four years now and still can’t quite believe what a good score it was.
“It was the best thing we’ve done,” says June. “It’s north facing, so it… View moreTony and June feel like the luckiest people living in a Ryman village.
The couple have lived in their large, sunny serviced apartment for four years now and still can’t quite believe what a good score it was.
“It was the best thing we’ve done,” says June. “It’s north facing, so it gets lots of light, and it’s a good size, so I’ve got room for my card-making supplies.”
Click below to read their full story.
Dead or alive we pay cash for any unwanted cars, Vans, Trucks, 4x4, and Ute's.
Call our free phone 0800 333 314 now for a free appraisal or text to 021 303 903
Locally owned and Operated
Find out more
From 24 November to 9 December, stop/go traffic management will be in place on SH2 between Irish Road and Steen Road on multiple nights between 9pm and 5am(Sundays to Thursdays).
During the day, all lanes will be open, but speed restrictions will apply to allow the chipseal to set and to protect… View moreFrom 24 November to 9 December, stop/go traffic management will be in place on SH2 between Irish Road and Steen Road on multiple nights between 9pm and 5am(Sundays to Thursdays).
During the day, all lanes will be open, but speed restrictions will apply to allow the chipseal to set and to protect vehicles travelling over the newly laid surface.
There may be delays to your journey when travelling through the area. Click to find out more.
Find out more
💸💸💸 Before you get caught, test your scam knowledge with Netsafe’s fun new Scam Spotting Quiz or try our online module for even more skill-building.
David from Remuera
To begin with, in today’s employment landscape, a growing number of individuals who have worked tirelessly to obtain academic qualifications are beginning to question the true value of their efforts. Thus, this concern is not born out of entitlement but from a deep sense of disillusionment, as … View moreTo begin with, in today’s employment landscape, a growing number of individuals who have worked tirelessly to obtain academic qualifications are beginning to question the true value of their efforts. Thus, this concern is not born out of entitlement but from a deep sense of disillusionment, as many find themselves overlooked in favour of those without formal qualifications but with extensive on-the-job experience. Indeed, this unsettling reality calls for serious reflection on current employment practices and raises a vital question: “What, then, is the point of striving so hard for a qualification when experience seems to outweigh education?”
First and foremost, the notion that a qualification guarantees employment has become a distant myth. Notably, employers increasingly prefer those trained within the workplace, citing adaptability and immediate productivity. Yet, this preference leaves behind those who have invested years in higher education, often at significant financial and emotional cost. Besides, such a shift discourages future generations from pursuing tertiary education, as formal learning is valued less than informal experience.
In essence, this mindset diminishes the inherent value of education and undermines the belief that knowledge and practice can coexist. Moreso, the issue is not which is superior, education or experience, but whether society has lost its balance in honouring both. Thereafter, qualifications should never be dismissed as mere credentials but recognised as testaments of perseverance, discipline, and critical thought.
Correspondingly, the human cost of this imbalance is severe. Herein, many graduates find themselves unemployed or underemployed, their confidence eroded by repeated rejections and systemic bias against practical workers. The root issue is not one of ability but of recognition, the inability of current employment systems to appreciate academic accomplishment as an asset. As a result, society risks valuing expedience over excellence.
Therein lies the emotional toll on those who have studied diligently. Behind every qualification lies sacrifice, long nights, and the desire to contribute meaningfully to society. Whereas such effort is disregarded, it sends a message that formal education no longer matters. This, in turn, undermines both individual motivation and the moral fabric of a nation that once prized wisdom, equity, and innovation.
Reflectively, the divide between qualification and experience ought to be seen as complementary, not competitive. On the other hand, tertiary institutions and industries must cultivate pathways that connect theory and practice, whilst apprenticeships, graduate programmes, and internships should function as genuine bridges between learning and doing rather than as symbolic gestures.
Consequently, policymakers and employers must reform recruitment strategies. It is vitally crucial for us to value education, not the rejection of experience; it is an acknowledgement that scholarship fosters ethical awareness, innovation, and depth of understanding. Henceforth, workplaces that blend graduates with seasoned practitioners achieve lasting creativity and resilience.
Undoubtedly, when academic achievement is dismissed, the repercussions are far-reaching. It implies that effort and perseverance lose meaning, and students are disheartened from pursuing excellence. Notwithstanding, the widening divide between those who can afford unpaid experience and those who cannot fosters inequity and restricts social mobility.
Consecutively, this issue becomes particularly evident after secondary education. Subsequently, many young people enter tertiary study believing it will secure meaningful work, only to face disappointment upon graduation. Meanwhile, others who bypass formal education and train on the job progress swiftly. Even so, those with practical skills should be encouraged to pursue tertiary recognition, for experience alone must be complemented by academic grounding. At such moments, I often find myself deeply contemplating the point of having such qualifications when employers undervalue individuals who have laboured faithfully. Alongside this ongoing neglect breeds emotional fatigue and spiritual questioning, not of one’s calling, but of a society that fails to honour discipline and integrity. Truly, it feels unjust when knowledge and perseverance go unnoticed while others rise with ease through circumstance.
Equally important, my ICT qualification required an 80% pass mark in each paper, demanding precision, discipline, and perseverance. Most importantly, it is distressing to see those without such credentials gaining entry-level employment while those academically equipped for practice remain sidelined. Thereupon, stigma suggesting that qualifications are redundant is deeply misguided, and the growing culture of paper-chasing, where learning is dismissed rather than valued, erodes workplace morale, thereby clearly diminishing the noble intent of education to empower rather than demean. It is also crucial to stop pressuring individuals to pursue higher qualifications when they are not ready, as this disregards well-being and purpose. Hereafter, are we undermining those who have worked hard for their tertiary qualifications and apprenticeships, both certified and deserving, in favour of those lacking either distinction?
Not least, recent developments expose the fragility of professional recognition. The liquidation of ITPNZ, an organisation that for decades certified IT specialists and assessed overseas credentials, illustrates that even respected institutions can falter. Following unrecoverable debts and the loss of its accreditation licence, ITPNZ entered liquidation, leaving many professionals and students in limbo. Both the NZ Herald report and the ITPNZ official closure notice4 confirm that this outcome stemmed from ongoing financial challenges. Evidently, a recent article published on ITPNZ’s full paid membership page has confirmed the details of its closure and liquidation. It is therefore imperative to restore the honour and credibility once attached to tertiary qualifications, ensuring that those who earned them through rigour and sacrifice receive the recognition they deserve.
By comparison, in earlier decades, the pursuit of a tertiary qualification was revered as a mark of intellect and perseverance. Nations such as Singapore exemplified this ideal, where entry into the former University of Singapore, now the National University of Singapore (NUS), was reserved for individuals of exceptional diligence and ability. Remarkably, NUS continues to rank among the top twenty-five universities worldwide, reflecting its enduring prestige and influence. Singapore’s Ministry of Education continues to produce exemplary government scholars, with educators trained across multiple disciplines, often required to complete double majors and minors. Such achievement symbolised not only knowledge but moral integrity and scholarly discipline. Graduates from these tertiary institutions were held in the highest esteem, their qualifications representing the collective advancement of their nation. In the olden era, education, rightly esteemed, cultivates reverence and moral strength; virtues our modern world must urgently reclaim.
What’s more, have we also forgotten our public servants who labour faithfully for the nation’s well-being? In that light, many have studied hard to earn the credentials that enable them to serve with competence and humility. On the contrary, increasing disrespect and public slander have driven many to resign, eroding morale and damaging mental health. Hereby, society must rediscover compassion and gratitude toward those who sustain essential services. In doing so, churches and communities must also recognise the emotional strain borne by these individuals, some of whom have been laid off or taken settlements under New Zealand’s employment legislation. Not only that, empathy mirrors the heart of Christ and restores dignity to those who serve quietly and faithfully.
Henceforward, unequivocally stated that cheating within academia is neither acceptable nor ethical. It is vitally crucial that all tertiary institutions act decisively, prosecuting where necessary, against dishonest conduct such as providing or receiving unauthorised assistance during quizzes, including the sharing of answers or copying another student’s responses, which constitutes cheating. Primarily, academic leaders must ensure that integrity is upheld at all times and that honest students are not unfairly reprimanded for the misconduct of others. It is equally concerning when disruptive students disturb learning environments while those genuinely affected are wrongly penalised, undermining academic integrity, which is the cornerstone of trust and excellence. Without it, qualifications lose all meaning, and every learner must pursue knowledge with honesty, discipline, and respect for truth, for integrity in study reflects integrity in life.
In accordance, such realities compel us to reconsider how society values education itself. If tertiary institutions can collapse, and qualified individuals remain underappreciated. In that case, the meaning of qualification must be redefined, not as an economic tool but as a symbol of moral endurance and a lifelong pursuit of wisdom.
In light of the above, we must restore equilibrium between learning and practice so that neither is elevated at the other’s expense. A truly educated society values every contributor, both the scholar and the skilled worker, and provides room for each to thrive with dignity and purpose.
Consequently, let us move forward with renewed conviction, ensuring that education and employment work hand in hand to cultivate a fair, inclusive, and flourishing society. On that note, every qualification, like every act of labour, bears significance, for both reflect human perseverance and the pursuit of excellence in service to others.
In reflection, Proverbs 22:29 reminds us that those who are skilled in their work will stand before kings, not before obscure individuals, and as Colossians 3:23 calls us to labour wholeheartedly, as unto the Lord, not for human praise. Nevertheless, both skill and diligence, whether through study or experience, are gifts from God entrusted for the betterment of others. Finally, let us uphold integrity in every task, honour learning in all its forms, and remember that our labour, grounded in faith and humility, is never in vain before the eyes of God.
Ultimately, are we, as a society, truly honouring those who labour faithfully, study diligently, and serve selflessly, or have we allowed complacency to erode the respect that once defined our shared humanity?
In light of the above, you can refer to the full written article published on Substack: substack.com....
The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz
Your location can affect how much you pay to see a GP. So, someone on the West Coast might pay around $33, while a person in Wellington might pay closer to $70.
❔ We want to know: Where do you live, and how much do your GP visits cost?
These prices are influenced by underfunding, subsidy … View moreYour location can affect how much you pay to see a GP. So, someone on the West Coast might pay around $33, while a person in Wellington might pay closer to $70.
❔ We want to know: Where do you live, and how much do your GP visits cost?
These prices are influenced by underfunding, subsidy caps, and the pressure they put on wages. Read more about how the GP lottery impacts you in Harriet Laughton's piece in The Post.
68 replies (Members only)
Kia pai from Sharing the Good Stuff
Did you know there’s a global shortage of sweet pea seeds?
In Aotearoa New Zealand, dedicated gardeners are working to revive authentic sweet pea varieties and keep their beauty blooming for generations to come 🌸🪻🌻
Read more about their efforts here.
We hope this brings a smile!
60 replies (Members only)
Margaret from Papatoetoe
Hi everyone, I have a Dolce Gusto Genio S coffee pod machine that is in good condition, only problem is the water not filtering through. I think there is a blocked hose but not confident enough to open it up and look. I have tried descaling but no luck. If anyone would like it and can get it … View moreHi everyone, I have a Dolce Gusto Genio S coffee pod machine that is in good condition, only problem is the water not filtering through. I think there is a blocked hose but not confident enough to open it up and look. I have tried descaling but no luck. If anyone would like it and can get it going, it's yours. It's only 2 years old and as mentioned it is clean and in good condition.
Free
Hoki from Papatoetoe
Worn few times and in great condition. No stains and no marks. Very comfortable ans styling fashion :).
Cute cat hoodie 2XL - 20.00
Greenish bomber jacket 3XL - 20.00
Please message me if your interested.
Price: $20
Hey neighbours! Skip the crowds and shop from the comfort of your couch this Black Friday. Mags4Gifts.co.nz has up to 40% off magazine subscriptions for a limited time. From gardening and homes to lifestyle and entertainment, they make the perfect gift (or a little treat for yourself) that lasts … View moreHey neighbours! Skip the crowds and shop from the comfort of your couch this Black Friday. Mags4Gifts.co.nz has up to 40% off magazine subscriptions for a limited time. From gardening and homes to lifestyle and entertainment, they make the perfect gift (or a little treat for yourself) that lasts all year long. Explore sale
Scams can happen to anyone, especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday when online shopping increases. Scammers use trust, hope and fear to get money or personal information:
TRUST: Pretending to be a courier, retailer, or bank.
HOPE: Offering fake “too good to miss” deals or miracle … View moreScams can happen to anyone, especially during Black Friday and Cyber Monday when online shopping increases. Scammers use trust, hope and fear to get money or personal information:
TRUST: Pretending to be a courier, retailer, or bank.
HOPE: Offering fake “too good to miss” deals or miracle products.
FEAR: ‘Limited time deals’ messaging, fake ‘missed delivery’ updates
✋ Remember the SCAMS red flags:
Surprise contact
Control or pressure
Access to your device
Money request
Stop and seek support
If you think you’ve been scammed, stop contact, call your bank, and change your passwords.
The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz
The Press recently featured Rangitoto, and it got the Neighbourly team curious…
We want to know: Which walks in and around Auckland do you think are underrated and worth exploring? 🌿✨
Enterprise Motor Group is thrilled to bring you the MEGA STOCK CLEARANCE SALE! With over 600 vehicles in stock across the group and fresh arrivals daily, your perfect car is waiting. Save up to $3000 or enjoy a cashback — PLUS get a FREE tank of fuel with every purchase until 30 November!
… View moreEnterprise Motor Group is thrilled to bring you the MEGA STOCK CLEARANCE SALE! With over 600 vehicles in stock across the group and fresh arrivals daily, your perfect car is waiting. Save up to $3000 or enjoy a cashback — PLUS get a FREE tank of fuel with every purchase until 30 November!
We’re clearing over 400 cars - all priced to go! Drive away today with $0 deposit finance from just $55 a week.*
Find out more
Derek from Papatoetoe
Hi all just seen this on face book. Nearly time for the Papatoetoe Santa parade Wednesday 3 December and this year there is a rain date. Wednesday 10 December
Loading…
Are you sure? Deleting this message permanently removes it from the Neighbourly website.
Loading…
© Neighbourly 2026